Bat Reviews: DeMarini CF9 Fastpitch Softball Bats

Year after year, DeMarini meticulously crafts and creates some of the best softball bats in the nation. With eye-catching cosmetics and industry leading technology, the CF9 series is a can't miss. There are seven different models to choose from if you're looking for a CF9 and, as DeMarini says, they make bats for the way you play. Whether you are a power hitter swinging for the fences, a contact hitter aiming for those gaps, or a slapper looking to get on base, DeMarini bats are designed to work for you. JustBats is here to break down all seven models and explain the differences between each one.  The 2017 DeMarini CF9 softball bats all begin with the innovative Paraflex composite material. This is 22% stronger and more durable than the Paradox+ composite associated with the DeMarini CF8 lineup. So, get ready for a bat that will last you for seasons to come! Remember, DeMarini makes their models a specific way so that every player is accommodated. The CF9 series has options with balanced swing weights and end loaded swing weight. There are even options with longer barrels and some with shorter barrels. Additionally, you can find a CF9 with a length-to-weight ratio (or a drop as some may call it) ranging between a -8 all the way up to a -11. These truly are bats made for the way you play.

First up is the 2017 DeMarini CF9 -8 Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCF8), the heaviest bat in the series. With a -8 length to weight ratio and a slightly end loaded swing weight, this softball bat is designed for elite power hitters seeking maximum performance. Check out what one player had to say about its performance:

Pros: "I LOVE this bat. It is heavier than I anticipated but I am able to crush with it. There is absolutely no sting in my hands either. 10/10." 

Cons: "The paint is eh. It started to chip away a little bit..."

The 2017 DeMarini CF9 -9 Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFF) is approved for all Fastpitch softball organizations. This is a great option for older players that possess a little extra strength. Heavy hitters at the high school and collegiate levels would benefit most from swinging this model. Add in the sleek navy blue colorway and this softball bat is bound to be a home run. 

Now, the -10 CF9 is up! There are four different models of the CF9 that all feature a -10 length-to-weight ratio, but they are all unique in their own ways. These models include the regular CF9, the Hope, the Slapper, and the Insane. What is the difference? We're glad you asked. Let's review all four. 

1) The 2017 DeMarini CF9 -10 Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFP) is the regular one that most would consider when purchasing a DeMarini softball bat. This design is the most balanced bat in the CF9 lineup, without a doubt. With hot out of the wrapper performance and one of the lightest swing weights ever, your swing speed with this model will increase drastically and improve performance at the plate. Here is what a parent had to say about this CF9:

Pros: "Just received this bat yesterday in the mail, my daughter is playing in the USSSA National Softball Tournament in Southern California, the bat has a lot of pop. We were tied 2-2 last at bat, and she hit a three run homer and won the game. The bat had only been out of the box for 4 hours and was never broken in!

Cons: "We haven't owned the bat long enough."

2) The 2017 DeMarini CF9 -10 Slapper Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFA) is number two on the list of drop tens. As the title states, this design is intended for those lefty, slap hitters who are great at getting on base. Grip tape on this CF9 is oriented to maximize feel for lefty slappers and bunters. The best part about this softball bat is the extended 14-inch barrel that gives the player a larger hitting surface and a greater chance of making contact. Although it is tailored for a slap hitter, this CF9 has enough punch to drive the ball to all parts of the field. So, even if you're not a slap hitter, consider this model. Here is what a softball dad had to say about the 2016 Slapper (which easily applies to this years' model):

Pros: "Great pop out of the wrapper, barrel length really provides more 'contact patch' for improved batting control. 14 y/o daughter is a lefty hitter and contact hitter; this bat can send the ball wherever she wants it to go! The reverse wrapped tape sounds like hype, but it really does improve grip and bat feel. Favorite bat ever!"

Cons: "Graphics aren't her favorite and unknown durability but all her prior DeMarinis have never disappointed and still used by sibling and teammates."

3) The 2017 DeMarini CF9 -10 Hope Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFH) has a limited edition colorway that supports a worthy cause. While this model has all the same features of number one on the -10 list, the cosmetics and the meaning behind this softball bat are something special. With each CF9 Hope sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. 

4) Last, but certainly not least on the -10 list, is the 2017 DeMarini CF9 -10 Insane Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFI); another model that is geared towards power hitters. Not because of the heavy weight, but because of the slightly end loaded swing weight. A small amount of the overall weight of this softball bat is at the end of the barrel to help take your power to the next level. As long as you can get this monster bat around with quick swing speed, you'll see an improvement in distance and pop. Here is what a travel ball dad had to say about the CF9 Insane:

Pros: "This bat has a great feel. My daughter is continuously hitting the ball over the fence now. This bat has a way larger sweet zone than her previous. The heavier barrel is great for her power swing. We all just love this bat."

Cons: "It is a bit pricey. But it is worth it if your daughter is a power swinger. If you are used to a more even weighted bat, it will take some getting used to."

Looking for a drop 11 Fastpitch bat? The 2017 DeMarini CF9 -11 Fastpitch Softball Bat (WTDXCFS) is easily the most popular CF9 of the bunch. With the -11 length-to-weight ratio, this softball bat tends to lean more towards the younger players who take their game seriously. Here is what some parents and coaches had to say about the -11 CF9. 

Pros: "Swings very light allowing player to easily keep it on path to ball. Good pop right out of wrapper. Daughter was using Easton SCN1B until it was outlawed and bat has same type of explosiveness. Time will tell on durability."

Cons: "None so far."

Pros: "Update! My Daughter has used this bat for about 30 games since June and over 100 practices. This Bat is very durable! We have kept it out of the batting cages and away from weighted balls as recommended. Paint and decals are still looking great. The ball explodes off this bat!

Cons: "The price $. It makes me cringe when it is thrown during games...also other players want to use the bat during games."

All models will also include the following features:

• Free Shipping! (If purchased through JustBats.com)
• 2 1/4 Inch Barrel Diameter
• Approved For Play In ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, and ISF
• Consistently Laid Composite Along The Barrel For More Responsiveness
• D-Fusion 2.0 Handle Technology Eliminates Vibration & Redirects Energy To The Barrel
• Low Pro End Cap Or The Dish End Cap To Help Increase Overall Balance & Feel
• Full Twelve (12) Month Manufacturer's Warranty
• Massive Sweet Spot
• Paraflex Composite Barrel For 22% Stronger Carbon Fibers Compared To The CF8
• Two-Piece, Fully Composite Construction

Hopefully, this is the information you were looking for on the DeMarini CF9 Fastpitch softball bats. Have you had the chance to swing the CF9? What did you think? Were you equally impressed or did you wish something were different? Please leave a comment below telling us your opinion on the CF9 fastpitch softball bats. Or, if you have any other baseball bat and softball bat related questions, please give our Bat Experts a ring at 866-321-BATS (2287). They are available and are more than happy to help! Remember, we'll be here for you from click to hit.